This week we are going to familiarize ourselves with the western, ancient origins of Rhetorical Theory. As we move through our chapter readings and assigned media, we will begin to craft connections between what what Aristotle and the great Sophists have to do with argument today.
Particularly when we think of “making argument,” we should be considered what comes to mind. Conflict? Pro-Con? Winners and Losers? Compromise? Resolution? These are all ideas we will confront this week as we dive into the history of rhetorical theory and begin a framework of argument together!
Module Objectives:
Discuss the classical origins of Rhetorical Theory
Identify the five canons of rhetoric
Classify the definition of argument
Chapter Readings:
Understanding Rhetoric: A Graphic Guide to Writing 2e, Issue 1: Why Rhetoric p. 50-69
Writing Arguments: A Rhetoric with Readings 11e, Chapter 1: Argument: An Introduction p. 2-16
Additional Readings:
Classical Rhetoric 101: Invention
https://www.artofmanliness.com/character/knowledge-of-men/classical-rhetoric-101-the-five-canons-of-rhetoric-invention/
Classical Rhetoric 101: Arrangement
https://www.artofmanliness.com/character/knowledge-of-men/classical-rhetoric-101-the-five-canons-of-rhetoric-arrangement/
Classical Rhetoric 101: Style
https://www.artofmanliness.com/character/knowledge-of-men/classical-rhetoric-101-the-five-canons-of-rhetoric-style/
Classical Rhetoric 101: Memory
https://www.artofmanliness.com/character/knowledge-of-men/classical-rhetoric-101-the-five-canons-of-rhetoric-memory/
Classical Rhetoric 101: Delivery
https://www.artofmanliness.com/character/knowledge-of-men/canon-of-delivery/
Instructions: You are expected to read all of the assigned readings before posting on the discussion boards. You may respond to questions posted by the instructor or any student but posts need to be closely related to readings and posted in a timely manner. Post Initial responses and peer responses in a timely manner, responding to instructor discussion threads/prompts or posting uniquely generated content.